7 Best Comfortable Running Shoes in 2023

When it comes to running shoes, comfort is king. Whether you’re a high mileage, daily runner, or a weekend warrior, we all want that running shoe that delivers great comfort while running.
Whatever your running preferences or racing requirements, there are hundreds of “comfortable” models out there from various brands choosing the right one can be confusing and time-consuming.
To guide you in your search for the most comfortable running shoes, we’ve handpicked the models that deliver that “aahhh, this-is-it” sensation. Each pair of shoes we recommend on this list was ranked on overall value, road or trail performance, budget-friendliness, and most popular options.
These top picks also earned high scores based on our rigorous testing in three areas such as overall fit, cushioning, and, yes, comfort.
How we test running shoes
With years of running under our belts and numerous hours of testing thousands of running shoes, we can definitely say that we know a lot about comfortable running shoes. In this list, we’ve highlighted the models based on the following selection process:
- We buy all the shoes with our own money to avoid bias and brand loyalty.
- We cut each shoe to pieces in our lab. We weigh and measure 30+ parameters of its essential parts, from cushioning, breathability, stability, and many more.
- Our testers log at least 30 to 40 miles of running on each pair in various training and racing conditions.
- We collect more information from other shoe experts and regular runners. We add them to our comparable data in a summary format.
The final rating on each shoe is reflected in our proprietary CoreScore system. Ranging from 0 to 100, you will see how each model is ranked among other 800+ comfortable running shoes in our portfolio. Our best picks are shown on this list.
Best comfortable running shoes overall





























What makes it the best?
Pros
- Great all-rounder
- Super-smooth and responsive ride
- Plush cushioning
- Comfy upper
- Grippy outsole
- Above average durability
- Fairly priced
Cons
- Heavier than other similar shoes
- Not many colors available
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Best comfortable running shoes for trail
























What makes it the best?
Pros
- 2 carbon plates: very propulsive ride
- Insanely stable
- Looks fast and runs fast
- Lightweight
- Very cushioned & responsive
- Worth the investment
- Room for feet swelling
- Grippy
- No break-in
- Vegan materials used
Cons
- Not for technical terrains
- Might accumulate mud
- Expensive
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Best comfortable running shoes with wide toebox
























What makes it the best?
Pros
- Fits like a dream
- Accommodating stretchy upper
- Efficient transitions
- Surprisingly peppy
- Laces stay tied tightly
- Low to the ground
- Durable construction
- Great deal
- Do-it-all shoe
- Impressive weight
- Breathable
Cons
- Not for long runs
- No reflective details
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Best stability comfortable running shoes























What makes it the best?
Pros
- Familiar Kayano fit
- Roomier toebox
- No lace bite
- Added pep
- No medial post
- Lost weight
- Kayano durability
Cons
- Heel slipping
- Overly plush
- Runs warm
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Best comfortable lightweight running shoes





















What makes it the best?
Pros
- Breathable
- Responsive
- Carbon rods
- Soft midsole
- Laces stay tight
- Price
Cons
- Runs narrow
- Unstable at slow speeds
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Best comfortable running shoes for long distance





























What makes it the best?
Pros
- Super bouncy
- Cushy feel for miles
- Breathable
- Light AF
- Ready for cornering
- Locks you in
- Tongue stays in place
- Grippy outsole
- Mad durable
- Sets the bar for a do-it-all shoe
Cons
- A tad too long
- More expensive by $10
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Best comfortable running shoes with plush cushioning




























What makes it the best?
Pros
- All about comfort!
- True to size
- Lots of padding
- Smooth ride
- Really stable, even on light trails
- Great out of the box
- Built for longevity (500 miles, easily)
- Great grip
Cons
- Lacks breathability for hot summer days
- Not the best for long distances
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Comparison of the 7 best comfortable running shoes
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